Particle.news
Download on the App Store
12 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Clay Holmes Named Mets' Opening Day Starter in Surprise Move

The former Yankees closer transitions to a starting role as the Mets face rotation challenges ahead of the 2025 season.

Feb 27, 2025; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Clay Holmes (35) delivers a pitch against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images/File Photo
JUPITER, FLORIDA - MARCH 10: Sandy Alcantara #22 of the Miami Marlins in the spring training game against the Washington Nationals at Roger Dean Stadium on March 10, 2025 in Jupiter, Florida.
Clay Holmes #35 of the New York Mets throws a pitch against the Houston Astros during the third inning of a spring training game at Clover Park on February 27, 2025 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Image

Overview

  • Clay Holmes will make his first start since 2018 as the Mets' Opening Day pitcher against the Houston Astros on March 27.
  • Holmes, a former All-Star closer, signed a three-year, $38 million deal with the Mets this offseason to transition into a starting role.
  • In spring training, Holmes impressed with 9 2/3 scoreless innings, 13 strikeouts, and the development of new pitches like a changeup and cutter.
  • The Mets' rotation has been impacted by injuries to key pitchers, including Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga, prompting the decision to start Holmes.
  • Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Holmes' preparation and performance, emphasizing his potential to stabilize the rotation despite his limited starting experience.